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I can only say contrary to the other users experience, this little telescope has exceeded my expectations.Sure, Saturn looks better in my 10" DOB, but it is sharp and beautiful in this little scope as well. I've looked a M13, Orion, etc. All looked great. My one beef with the scope is the helical focuser. Although I think it is a perfectly reasonable offering for a scope in this price range, I can't help wish for something better. It sticks in the cold and is too loose in the warm.

All in all this has been a perfect grab and go scope. I can't tell you how many people have had their first view of Jupiter, Saturn and craters on the moon through this scope and every one of them has been amazed.

Note, the above observations were made wit the included eyepieces, a Celestron 2x Barlow and a well collumated scope.

I am currently using my Ares 5 in light polluted south Florida and couldn't be happier with this "Grab-N-Go" scope. I have currently logged 26 Messier objects and split several doubles. The high humidity and unsettled weather has been my limiting factor for my Messier campain. I have mounted my Bushnell on the iOptron Pro-Cube Alt-Az mount and now control my "Goto Scope" with my ipad. Can't wait for the mosquitos to subside and the winter skies to arrive!